All about maximum tyre pressure

It’s very important to check your tyres every couple of weeks or so. If you fail to do this, you could be risking your safety, reducing your fuel economy and compromising the performance of your vehicle.

The handbook that comes with your vehicle tells you how much pressure your tyres require. The information might also be included on stickers found inside your car, in areas like the driver’s door edge or fuel filler flap. You will normally see two figures – a figure for typical use and a higher one for bigger loads. If you don’t have the manual or can’t find out the right tyre pressure for any other reason, one step that you can take is to get in touch with the customer services department of the manufacturer. You will need to give them your make, model and registration number as well as the size of the tyres fitted to your car.

Make sure your tyres are cold

Your tyres should be cold when you check your tyre pressure. This can be achieved by making sure you haven’t been driving your car during the previous couple of hours. You will need to use a reliable and accurate gauge. You should also examine your tyres for wear, bulges and cuts. If you do find any cuts, you will need to ask a tyre specialist whether they are still safe to use. You will need to replace your tyre if you do find a bulge.

Over and under-inflation

If your tyres are over or under-inflated, you will need to replace them more frequently. This will cost you more time and money than necessary. Under-inflated tyres tend to edge more at the edges of the tread, with over-inflated tyres showing more wear at the centre. Under-inflated tyres also have higher rolling resistance and therefore greater fuel consumption. Stopping distances are increased when your tyres are under-inflated, which means your car will become harder to handle , causing the potential for an accident. Sudden tyre failures are also more likely when tyres are under-inflated. When your tyres are over-inflated, comfort can be compromised considerably.

Replacing your tyres

At Wheel Power Alignment, we can come to your assistance if you do require the services of a leading tyre specialist. We stock tyres from some of the most reputable brands around, including Falken, Pirelli, Michelin and Dunlop and we can also provide you with winter tyres. Tyres can sometimes last up to ten years but should always be replaced once this point is reached. However, you will be advised to replace your tyres much earlier than this in most cases.

Wheel misalignment and tyres

We are also able to assist you if you are experiencing problems with wheel misalignment. Misalignment can result in uneven tyre wear and make your car harder to handle. If your car is pulling to one side, you may have problems with alignment that need to be resolved at your earliest opportunity. When your tyres are aligned properly, your tyres will last longer, and you’ll enjoy a smoother ride. We can resolve most alignment problems in just 30 minutes. Get in touch with us today by calling 020 86 999591 or by using the form on the site.